Pep Guardiola and Xavi have seen there integrity questioned after publically voicing their concern over the political turmoil involving Spain and Catalonia.

In an interview reported by Marca, he believes that even footballers are allowed their own opinions and that it should impact their position.

He said:

“Every person has their own opinion, the right and freedom [to speak] is the most important thing.”

“But you can’t lose respect, dignity.”

“Everyone expresses what they feel and they all have the right to their own opinion.”

“What we can’t allow is what is happening, altercations and people fighting on the street.”

“All this is making me very sad, I think that it’s the same for many Spaniards and Catalans.”

“I don’t like getting involved in this topic because it’s political and it’s they are the ones that have to sort it out.”

“But violence is the last thing [we need]. We always have to be united so that Spain doesn’t give off this image.”

“All this makes me very sad.”

Joaquin is in the twilight of his career and has less than a year on his Real Betis contract.

There is still no concrete decision from the club on where his future lies.

His contract at Real Betis expires at the end of this season and he’s still waiting to sign a renewal.

When asked if he was going to sign a new one, he said:

“I don’t know, it’s being spoken [about].”

“There are no negotiations because there doesn’t need to be. We’re waiting for the right moment or that we can sit down and agree a deal.”

“We’re going to go one by one [years of renewals]. ”

“The age is always there, but I feel strong, good, I’m enjoying [playing for Betis].”

“I’ve always wanted to retire at a beautiful moment, one tries to go out on a high.”

“But I’m not worried about it.

We’re on the journey, it’s not easy because lifting trophies isn’t easy, but things have been going well for a few years now.”

“This brings you on a path that is fighting with the best.”

LONDON – OCTOBER 18: Joaquin Sanchez of Real Betis is pictured during the Real Betis training session for the Group G Champion’s League match against Real Betis at Stamford Bridge on October 18, 2005 in London, England. (Photo by Ben Radford/Getty Images)

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